'Aikahi Elementary School

The school garden has gone undercover - literally! Part of our grant money was used to purchase UV resistant high quality woven polypropylene ground cover. In this initial phase, the cover is being utilized to suppress weed growth in and between our raised beds (we have fifteen!) during the dormant summer months. This past spring there was a serious invasion of guinea grass and wedelia, two very aggressive weeds here in the tropics; it is our hope that this will suppress any remaining noxious plants.

In the fall, we will install the new sprinkler system, then use the cover to line the pathways between the beds. Sand and gravel will be laid on top of this to make a clean, attractive and easy to maintain garden area. The perimeter will be lined with reclaimed cinder blocks to separate the gravel from the adjacent lawn.

In the meantime, our native hibiscus bushes, sugar cane, fruit trees and herb garden continue to grow and thrive. We are also excited to report that we have forged a relationship with a local food bank to make better use of our excess produce next year. Other big plans are still in the works!